Ford marries its SYNC system to Apple’s Siri using Bluetooth

Ford released a software update today for more than 5 million SYNC-equipped vehicles dating back to 2011 that will allow drivers with Apple iPhones to use Siri Eyes-Free. Drivers will be able to activate Siri with a long press of the voice-recognition button on the steering wheel, similar to activating Siri on an iPhone. Drivers can activate Siri essentially the same way as they would on their iPhone — with an elongated press of a voice recognition button located on their steering wheel.

With the voice-activated system, drivers can make phone calls to contacts in their address books; look up phone numbers; set a reminder or alarm; ask about the weather; select and play music; audibly send and receive text messages; or get directions through Apple Maps. “Siri Eyes-Free is another great voice-activated feature that not only adds convenience, but also helps our customers keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel,” said Sherif Marakby, director of Ford electronics and electrical systems engineering. Apple now offers a more ambitious take on in-car infotainment with CarPlay, which lets users plug in an iPhone and view a limited, driving-optimized version iOS on the dashboard. Although Ford is one of many auto makers that intends to support CarPlay, the company has said that it doesn’t want to give up its own Sync in-dash system, and is looking at ways to integrate the two offerings.

Why this matters: The lack of CarPlay support is a moot point for existing Ford owners, who have no way to add Apple’s in-dash system without installing an aftermarket solution. While repeat Ford customers might hope for tighter Apple integration down the road, at least they’re getting some added capabilities on their current vehicles in the meantime.